How to make a narrow room look wider

Furnishing and decorating a narrow room can be a challenge. If done incorrectly, the space can look cramped, corners and other nooks are left empty, and the room itself doesn’t feel functional. There are a few visual tricks that can make a room feel wider, and furniture arranging tips that will guaranteed usability of space.

Don’t cramp the furniture in

You need to respect not only the space but the furniture you are putting in it. There’s no point in squeezing large furniture into a small space, it’ll look and feel cramped. Instead, opt for especially narrow tables or sideboards, and furniture that is within scale of the room. Make sure there is enough clearance between furniture pieces for people to walk comfortably by them.

Make it multi-zonal

The best way to make a long and narrow room feel wider and more spacious is by creating more than one sitting or gathering area. For example, if your room is long enough, you can position a living/sitting area a one end of the room, and a study nook at the other. Not only does creating multiple zones make your room more functional, but it gives the illusion of space.

Think up

If your home is blessed with exposed ceiling beams, rafters or other architectural features, be sure to play them up in narrow spaces. This will draw the eye up and create an illusion of space and a feeling of openness.

Use Mirrors

Mirrors are an excellent way to bounce light around a room and make it feel more spacious, a few strategically placed mirrors can make your narrow room appear wider, while installing two facing each other on opposite walls will create an infinity effect.

Laura BarryLaura Barry is a writer, bookworm and interior design enthusiast with a love for reporting on all things homes and lifestyle. When not tapping away at her keyboard, Laura can be found making endless cups of tea or perusing the shelves of Sydney’s many bookstores.